Working with so many different people gives me the opportunity to constantly form new relationships and friendships with my patients, their families, and our team members. Its a great feeling to know that each day I can come to work and do something I am truly passionate about!
I am excited about providing orthodontic care for the Corpus Christi and Alice communities. To me, being an orthodontic specialist means providing the highest quality of care to people of all ages, focusing on the aesthetics, function, and health of each individual smile. It is my goal to help each of my patients achieve the beautiful smile theyve always wanted and to help guide them toward improved oral health.
I love being an orthodontist, especially when I am able to see how happy my patients are when their treatment is complete and they see their new, amazing smile for the first time. I cannot help but to celebrate with them, as I know that their lives are going to be healthier and happier as a result of the work weve done together.
I attended St. Marys University in San Antonio for my Bachelor of Science degree, and then studied at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where I was awarded my Doctorate of Dental Surgery. This was followed by a Masters degree in Oral Biology and Certificate in Orthodontics from Baylor College of Dentistry, and a 27-month orthodontic residency program in Dallas.
Orthodontics is constantly changing; theres always something new being developed and its important to me that I stay current with the latest developments in my field so I can offer my patients the most advanced treatments possible. In addition to attendance at orthodontic and dental conferences throughout the year, I regularly take continuing education courses, attend lectures and seminars, and devour orthodontic and oral healthcare literature.
I was born and raised in Corpus Christi and I feel fortunate to be providing orthodontic care to a community that I know and love. My wife, Amy, is the other Dr. Vela in our practice; we have three wonderful children: our two daughters, Mia and Maddie, and our son, Matthew. When Im away from the practice, youll likely find me spending time with my family. Im also a big sports fan, whether its soccer, football, basketball, or baseball, and I enjoy hunting, fishing, spending time outdoors, and reading, as well.
I feel very blessed to be part of this profession, where we are able to educate people and impact their lives through our work. My goal is to always make each patients visit both a positive and enjoyable experience, and to be able to help people achieve smiles they can truly be proud of, while making sure those smiles deliver a first impression that best represents each persons inner and outer beauty.
Each day, I get to work and interact with fascinating people. Its very rewarding to go through the whole orthodontic process with each of them, and to see the joy and excitement on their face at the end of the journey. Getting to know each patient, as I get to see them regularly over an extended period of time, means I am able to form and maintain relationships that enrich my life. I look forward to seeing each person, catching-up on their latest adventures, or successes in school, hearing about their families and travels. Those exchanges are priceless and make each work day one I eagerly anticipate.
I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A & M University Corpus Christi and then attended the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where I was awarded my Doctorate of Dental Surgery. Following my graduation, I knew I had a wonderful foundational knowledge of oral healthcare, but I also knew that this is a field for lifelong learners.
Its essential that I constantly learn about technological developments and new, proven treatment options, in order to provide my patients with the best care available. Each year I participate in multiple continuing education opportunities and attend various conferences, meetings, and lectures, in order to broaden my knowledge and hone my skills. My patients deserve the best and that is what I strive to deliver.
Im married to the other Dr. Vela in our practice and have three beautiful children, Mia, Matthew and Maddie. I enjoy spending quality time with my family. We love being at the ranch, going to the beach, and traveling as much as possible. By the way, I was born and raised here in Corpus Christi!
Kori has been in the dental field since 1993. We are glad she joined us in 2013, bringing her wealth of experience and insights to our practice and patients. She loves getting to start our patients on their smile journey.
Erica became part of the Vela Orthodontics team in 2020. She appreciates being part of a team that is always willing to help one another and our patients and families. Its those interactions that keep Erica excited and looking forward to her days at the practice.
When it comes to your care in our office, our dental assistants provide service second to none! They help to place braces, change wires, take any necessary X-rays and photographs, and give instruction on the best ways to take care of your braces or appliance. They love meeting new patients and take the time to make sure your treatment is an easy, comfortable, and all-around positive experience.
Carols extensive experience in dentistry spans 30 years. She works hard to create an upbeat, positive, comfortable environment, where our patients needs always come first. Carol enjoys getting to know our patients, and building lasting friendships with each person she meets.
Marcie started her career in 2005 and joined our practice in 2013. She is happy to be part of a fun team that keeps everyone laughing. Even better, she loves being part of our patients smile transformations.
A newlywed as of January 2022, Molly loves time with her new husband and their families. The couple enjoys taking road trips, exploring, and being outdoors. Molly also loves watching movies and shopping.
Vicky has worked in the dental field since 2015. We are so happy she joined us in 2020, as she makes every day brighter and happier for all of us. She loves transforming and perfecting smiles and getting to know our patients during their time with us.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 202 reviews
Sort by
newest oldest highest lowestSusan Ketter
a year ago
Vela Orthodontics is amazing! They always are punctual and very thorough with treatment plan. They are all so great with my kids. Would recommend to everyone in Corpus Christi!
Alyssia Doria
a year ago
Get other options... I visited and spoke with various orthodontist in regards to treatment for myself when I was searching for the right office. Upon arriving to Velas the staff was welcoming. The office was clean. I immediately got put in Velas office for pics for my profile and to wait to talk to him. He chatted (quite a bit honestly) I told him I was leaning more to Invisalign but wouldn't mind braces if it was better on pricing (but Invisalign was my go to). Dr Vela insisted on braces since I needed jaw adjustment. He said the mechanics of braces would be far more accurate in straightening my teeth. Braces could mechanically move my teeth with rubber bands where as Invisalign could not. He said Invisalign didn't have the rubber band attachments to maneuver my teeth. I thought to myself yeah I mean that is true and I don't want my teeth just straight but completely fixed. I got quoted a pretty high amount for braces and a hefty down payment. I asked if I could please lower the down payment a bit (I mean I'm already paying out of pocket as it is) and they said no. Firm price no adjustments. They didn't want to work on a better payment plan. I was going to go with this office and then thought I'll keep looking. Anyways I found a great Ortho. Who put me in Invisalign for a way more reasonable amount and guess what?! This month I added my attachments to start mechanically moving my teeth with rubber bands! I've been 6 months in Invisalign and my smile has improved so much. Long story short... look around and get different pricing also ask questions some Orthodontist are more experienced in one area than others. Dr Vela is probably great with braces....My Ortho is a top diamond provider with Invisalign. Do your research.
Rachelle Jauregui
a year ago
Nothing but positive good experience for my daughter during her braces journey.
Lizbeth Galvan
2 years ago
The office is very clean and the staff is always so friendly and helpful. Dr. Vela is very nice and professional.
Monica Bryan
2 years ago
Thank you!
Jose Salinas
2 years ago
Very excellent
Jenika Perez
2 years ago
I highly recommend Dr. Vela's office! Staff is extremely nice, and friendly. Dr. Vela is a fantastic doctor. He answered all the questions we had, and explained things really well throughout the treatment time my son had his braces. They have an office in Alice, and in Corpus. Both offices are so welcoming, and homie. Best place to go!
Lori
2 years ago
Very welcoming and friendly. Great to know they're understanding and explain everything to you without hesitation.
Terri hubbard
2 years ago
Im glad i found this place after moving here! They are Super friendly and made the transition to Texas so much easier! Thanks!
Marie H
2 years ago
Had a fantastic consultation with Dr Vela for our kids. He took the time to talk to us through his recommendations and explained everything very thoroughly. Our Treatment Coordinator, Kori was absolutely wonderful! She is super friendly, very helpful, and great to work with! We are SO happy with our experience!
Mitra Khan
2 years ago
Beautiful office, amazing staff and a very caring orthodontist. My 6 year old felt at ease discussing future dental treatments and taking x-rays. Dr. Vela took the time to educate us on what to expect regarding braces and she left feeling like it will be no big deal. Can't recommend him enough. Will use him in the future for all my kids!
Angel Garcia
2 years ago
Just overall great place, friendly staff, very detailed about treatment, extremely knowledgeable, and just a wanna be there environment, love it
WAVEL BROWN
2 years ago
Impressed with their knowledge , especially the organized and user friendly manner it was presented..exceptional!
Honestly
2 years ago
The orthodontist (Dr Vela) is unprofessional!! While a patient there, I was told I have abnormally large teeth (I disagree). I simply asked about one tooth in particular, he awkwardly scooted his chair near my ear and asked if I remember how messed up my teeth were. I had two teeth misaligned out of all the teeth in my mouth! On the next dreaded visit he told me he "is not a mind reader", I need to tell him "what I want". I thought I was paying a substantial amount of money for an expert, not someone that needs the patient to explain how they want their teeth aligned. I got my retainer that did not fit, was told it could be adjusted. That was not the case!! The asst was of no help AT ALL! I took it to my general dentist who spent time and effort to make sure they fit properly. Most of the girls are kind, and I won't mention the ones that are not, they know who they are. With so many other options in town, I regret getting braces here and DO NOT RECOMMEND!!!!!!!
Krystal Garcia
2 years ago
So excited to get my sons braces on next week! Staff was super nice and friendly, we felt so welcomed! Our first consultation was super fast and they were even willing to put on his braces the same day! My 13 year old kept saying how cool Dr. Vela was :) Kori was so sweet! Definitely recommend, we can't wait to start my sons journey with his new smile!
Josh Cecot
2 years ago
Vela Orthodontics is the Best! Always friendly and professional. Its rare to look forward to a dental appointment but thats how I feel when I need to go in to see them :)
IHeartHefner
2 years ago
We had a great experience at Vela Orthodontics. They were very friendly, explained everything so well and were priced great. My daughter felt very at ease through the whole process. We highly recommend Vela.
kyle baddeley
3 years ago
Great environment! Very friendly people!
Linda Hamilton
3 years ago
I was blown away by how friendly and expedient the staff at Vela Orthodontics has been! From the first phone call to schedule an appointment to the actual appointment they have dazzled me with positivity and warmth. I haven't had any services done yet, other than the initial screening and x-rays, but my confidence level is sky high.
Carla Rios
3 years ago
The staff is very professional and Dr. Vela is amazing!! Highly recommend him for all your orthodontic needs! Amazing results with my children's teeth! Do yourself and your child a favor and go with Vela Orthodontics!!!
Load more